I know I am expecting differing opinions here so I want your honest thoughts.

If someone were to open up a new bass boat dealership what brand would be preferred and why.

Russ

Oh! Russ, the value for your money!

Phil

Here's your Champion dealer:

http://www.clearwater-marine.com/

Go pick up a new one Joel, and be sure to hit Whatcom before you leave town 

I popped this question because I have heard from so many people that fish around here who always say and I quote, " I wish there was a dealer around here who could take better care of my needs".

Nixons does a great job of promoting there products and supports many of us who not only compete but fish for fun as well. And yes I wish they were closer to. Conraths marine in Spokane is also a great dealership, but its in Spokane.

As many of you know I own and operate my own business and was looking at the possibility of starting another business not related to my current company. The best part would be that I could house both companies in the same building and offer storage as well.

I have allready found a great location and am checking with my real estate agent now on the costs.

Russ

Quote:


My bad I didn't know they started carrying Champions.  I think I might just go pick up a new one.......in about 15 years

I think before considering what boats, you need to find out what the manufactures require you to order and put on your lot. I know when champion was at Nisqually, he was required to have at a minimum of $250, 000 worth of boats on his lot. The boats had to be floor planned by the bank or bought out right. In addition, the boats were only floor planned for 6 months by the bank, then had to be bought by the dealership or sold.

Also, the geographic area is what a manufacturer will look at, as far as enough people to sell to. You have Nixon's/Anglers Marine; The Guy in Vancouver, WA; Conrath Marine, Spokane; Cabelas, Three Rivers Marine, and dealers in Nampa, ID.

Anyway, I would look at east coast manufactures that would consider expanding into the west. You might be surprised at the quality of boats. I would not want to get in bed with GENMAR who owns, Ranger, Stratos, Javlin, Champion, and a lot of others. I think there requirements would kill you. Plus, Skeeter and Triton are in Nixon's territory and you could not compete for a couple of years until you proved yourself to that market.

My 2 cents, Go Triton.

Daryl

I would have to side with the fire dud and Champ 206.   Phoenix is an innovative company that's hungry.  They have good management (former president of Stratos) and the nearest dealer is in Nampa.  Bass Cat is a great company with a great product.   I  personally know  the owners to be honest and straightforward. Either one would make a great premier line with Stratos or Nitro as a second choice.  For the aluminum boats Crestliner, Starcraft, or Lowes would most likely fill the needs of most consumers. 
I strongly feel that as a dealer you should not take on a boat line that requires you to marry it to a particular engine.  The bread & butter of a dealership is it's service department.  Make sure you can count on getting a couple of mechanics who are well trained and up-to-date with ALL the engines lines; Mercury, Evinrude, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Honda.  You don't have to stock all those engines, but you had best be prepared to repair them.
My.02!

Smitty
AKA Dune Hopper

A strong Service Dept would help promote boat sales.